Fall is definitely my favorite season when it comes to cocktails. It's the perfect time for spirit-forward drinks with flavors of smoke and spices. I usually reach for whiskey in the fall, but aged tequila can be a perfect spirit for the season, especially when paired with a bit of smoky mezcal.

For this cocktail, I used an anejo tequila aged in bourbon barrels to bring in those same smooth vanilla and caramel notes that a whiskey might have. A bit of Allspice Dram or Sukkah Hill Spirits Besamim add some autumn spices, and Ancho Reyes provides a surprising, spicy kick. Some Punt e Mes brings it all together. When you try it, you first get a touch of sweetness and flavors of cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon. It drinks like a bourbon cocktail for a split second. Then the mezcal and Ancho Reyes hit you with smoke and spice at the end of your sip. I can't imagine anything more perfect for a chilly fall day. One of these will warm you right up.

Bonfire

1 1/2 oz. anejo tequina
1/2 oz. Ancho Reyes
1/2 oz. Punt e Mes
1/4 oz. mezcal
1/4 oz. Besamim or Allspice Dram

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and stir until chilled. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass with one large ice cube. Garnish with a burnt cinnamon stick.